I started accompanying West African dance classes some time around 2004 and became connected with teachers in Guinea and Mali, West Africa. I finally went to the source to learn more in 2010-2011. I spent time in Conakry, Guinea with Mandjou Mara, and Bamako, Mali with Abdoul Doumbia. I took lessons and classes every day, performed at events, and generally just absorbed as much of the magic as possible before heading home.
